U.S. patent application number 11/738559 was filed with the patent office on 2008-01-17 for merchandising and product display system.
Invention is credited to M. Scott Bryson, Allen E. Johnson, Fredrick L. Kottke, Gary M. Richter, Daniel J. Schiffer.
Application Number | 20080011696 11/738559 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36954443 |
Filed Date | 2008-01-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080011696 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Richter; Gary M. ; et
al. |
January 17, 2008 |
MERCHANDISING AND PRODUCT DISPLAY SYSTEM
Abstract
A merchandising system for articles comprising a first divider
providing a sidewall and a generally longitudinal member along the
sidewall and a second divider providing a sidewall and a generally
longitudinal member along the sidewall. The first divider is
coupled to the second divider to form a compartment for the
articles between the sidewall of the first compartment and the
sidewall of the second compartment. The compartment has a front and
a back. A support for the articles is provided within the
compartment between the sidewall of the first divider and the
sidewall of the second divider from adjacent the front of the
compartment to adjacent the back of the compartment by the member
on the first divider and the member on the second divider.
Inventors: |
Richter; Gary M.; (Waukesha,
WI) ; Johnson; Allen E.; (Hartford, WI) ;
Bryson; M. Scott; (Brookfield, WI) ; Schiffer; Daniel
J.; (Menomonee Falls, WI) ; Kottke; Fredrick L.;
(Menomonee Falls, WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GODFREY & KAHN S.C.
780 NORTH WATER STREET
MILWAUKEE
WI
53202
US
|
Family ID: |
36954443 |
Appl. No.: |
11/738559 |
Filed: |
April 23, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11051040 |
Feb 4, 2005 |
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11738559 |
Apr 23, 2007 |
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10996170 |
Nov 23, 2004 |
7124898 |
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11051040 |
Feb 4, 2005 |
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PCT/US04/23791 |
Jul 23, 2004 |
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11051040 |
Feb 4, 2005 |
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|
10272527 |
Oct 15, 2002 |
6886699 |
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11051040 |
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10132662 |
Apr 25, 2002 |
7028852 |
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11051040 |
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60489676 |
Jul 23, 2003 |
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60329656 |
Oct 15, 2001 |
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60286892 |
Apr 26, 2001 |
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60313894 |
Aug 21, 2001 |
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60329656 |
Oct 15, 2001 |
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60335924 |
Oct 31, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
211/59.2 ;
211/184 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47F 1/126 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/059.2 ;
211/184 |
International
Class: |
A47F 5/00 20060101
A47F005/00 |
Claims
1. A merchandising system comprising: a pair of dividers spaced
apart from each other and a floor member extending between the
dividers, the divider and the floor member cooperating to define a
space for storing and displaying a plurality of product containers,
wherein a first product container is positioned at a forward end of
the space and the remaining product containers are positioned
behind the first product container and extend toward a rear of the
space; the floor member angled downward from the rear of the space
toward the front of the space; a product retaining member mounted
to a front end of each of the dividers, with each product retaining
member including at least one arm extending at least partially
across a width of the space, the arms from the two retaining
members cooperating to releasably retain the first product
container within the space adjacent the forward end; each arm of
the product retaining members including an inner surface with a
product retaining portion which engages the first product container
in the space and a recurved portion configured to deflect the arm
outward when a product container is pressed against the recurved
portion, the deflection of the arms of the two retaining members
permitting the placement of the product container within the space
through the forward end; each arm including an integral
reinforcement member extending from the rear portion along an outer
surface of the arm opposite the inner surface, the integral
reinforcement member providing resistance against outward
deflection of the arm.
2. The system of claim 1, further comprising each arm including a
plurality of transversely extending ridges spaced apart along the
outer surface of the arm.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein the integral reinforcement member
is a gusset extending partially along the length of the outer
surface opposite the product retaining portion.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein a first ridge is formed in the
outer surface of the arm at a point forward of the gusset.
5. The system of claim 1, further comprising a third divider
positioned adjacent one of the two dividers and cooperating with
the adjacent divider to define a second space similarly configured
to the space; the product retaining member mounted to the forward
end of the divider common to both spaces including a second arm
extending forward from the rear portion, with the second arm
similarly configured to the arm and extending at least partially
across the second space, with the gusset extending forward from the
rear portion along an outer surface of each of the arms.
6. The system of claim 5, further comprising each arm including a
plurality of transversely extending ridges spaced apart along the
outer surface of the arm.
7. A merchandising system comprising: a pair of dividers spaced
apart from each other and a floor member extending between the
dividers, the divider and the floor member cooperating to define a
space for storing and displaying a plurality of product containers,
wherein a first product container is positioned at a forward end of
the space and the remaining product containers are positioned
behind the first product container and extend toward a rear of the
space; the floor member angled downward from the rear of the space
toward the front of the space; a product retaining member mounted
to a front end of each of the dividers, with each product retaining
member including at least one arm extending at least partially
across a width of the space, the arms from the two retaining
members cooperating to releasably retain the first product
container within the space adjacent the forward end; each arm of
the product retaining members including an inner surface with a
product retaining portion which engages the first product container
in the space and a recurved portion configured to deflect the arm
outward when a product container is pressed against the recurved
portion, the deflection of the arms of the two retaining members
permitting the placement of the product container within the space
through the forward end; each arm including a plurality of
transversely extending ridges spaced apart along the outer surface
of the arm.
8. The system of claim 7, further comprising a third divider
positioned adjacent one of the two dividers and cooperating with
the adjacent divider to define a second space similarly configured
to the space; the product retaining member mounted to the forward
end of the divider common to both spaces including a second arm
extending forward from the rear portion, with the second arm
similarly configured to the arm and extending at least partially
across the second space.
10. The system of claim 9, further comprising a gusset extending
from the rear portion forwardly along an outer surface of each of
the arms of the product retaining member common to both spaces and
extending between the arms.
11. A product retaining member comprising: a rear portion, first
and second arms extending forward from the rear portion, and first
and second members extending rearward from the rear portion; the
rearward extending members defining a slot for engaging a forward
edge of a divider of a product merchandising system, the members
each including a tab extending into the slot to engage the divider;
each arm including first curved portion extending away from the
rear portion and curving away from the other arm and a second
curved portion forward of the first curved portion, the second
curved portion curving back towards the other arm, where the first
curved portion defines a product retaining portion and the second
curved portion defines a recurved portion; each arm further
including a surface opposite the product retaining portion, with an
integral reinforcement extending forward from the rear portion
along this surface and a plurality of transverse ridges formed
across this surface the arms and the integral reinforcement made of
a resilient deformable material permitting deflection of one arm
toward the other arm.
12. The product retaining member of claim 11, further comprising a
friction enhancing treatment on the product retaining portion of
the arms that provides increased resistance to movement of objects
in contact with the product retaining portion.
13. The product retaining member of claim 11, wherein the integral
reinforcement is a gusset extending forward from the rear portion
along the surface of each arm opposite the product retaining
portion and extending between the two arms.
14. The product retaining member of claim 11, wherein the members
defining the slot extend different distances from the rear portion
and the opposing tabs are off set from each other.
15. A product retaining member comprising: a rear portion, a first
arm extending forward from the rear portion, and first and second
members extending rearward from the rear portion; the arm including
a first curved portion extending away from the rear portion and a
second curved portion forward of the first curved portion, where
the first curved portion defines a product retaining portion and
the second curved portion defines an oppositely curved portion; the
arm further including a surface opposite the product retaining
portion, with an integral reinforcement extending forward from the
rear portion along this surface and a plurality of transverse
ridges formed across this surface, the arm and the integral
reinforcement made of a resilient deformable material permitting
deflection of the arm away from the product retaining portion; the
rearward extending members defining a slot for engaging a forward
edge of a divider of a product merchandising system, with one of
the members positioned opposite from the product retaining portion
of the arm and extending further from the rear portion than the
other member, each member including a tab extending into the slot
to engage the divider and the tabs are offset form each other.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This Application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending
U.S. application Ser. No. 11/051,040, filed on Feb. 4, 2005, which
is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/996,170,
filed Nov. 23, 2004, which is a continuation of International
Application No. PCT/US04/023791, filed on Jul. 23, 2004, which
claims the benefit of U.S. Application Ser. No. 60/489,676, filed
on Jul. 23, 2003. U.S. application Ser. No. 11/051,040 is also a
continuation-in-part application of co-pending U.S. application
Ser. No. 10/272,527, filed Oct. 15, 2002, which claims the benefit
of U.S. Application Ser. No. 60/329,656, filed on Oct. 15, 2001.
U.S. application Ser. No. 11/051,040 is also a continuation-in-part
application of co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 10/132,662,
filed on Apr. 25, 2002, which claims the benefit of the following
patent applications: (1) U.S. Application Ser. No. 60/286,892,
filed on Apr. 26, 2001, (2) U.S. Application Ser. No. 60/313,894,
filed on Aug. 21, 2001, (3) U.S. Application Ser. No. 60/329,656,
filed on Oct. 15, 2001, and (4) U.S. Application Ser. No.
60/335,924, filed on Oct. 31, 2001.
[0002] This Application claims the benefit of priority as available
under 35 U.S.C. .sctn..sctn.119-121 and 365 to the following patent
applications (which are hereby incorporated by reference in the
present Application): (1) U.S. application Ser. No. 11/051,040,
filed on Feb. 4, 2005; (2) U.S. application Ser. No. 10/996,170,
filed on Nov. 23, 2004; (3) International Application No.
PCT/US04/023791, filed on Jul. 23, 2004; (4) U.S. application Ser.
No. 10/272,527, filed Oct. 15, 2002; (5) U.S. application Ser. No.
10/132,662, filed on Apr. 25, 2002; (6) U.S. Application Ser. No.
60/489,676, filed on Jul. 23, 2003; (7) U.S. Application Ser. No.
60/286,892, filed on Apr. 26, 2001; (8) U.S. Application Ser. No.
60/313,894, filed on Aug. 21, 2001; (9) U.S. Application Ser. No.
60/329,656, filed on Oct. 15, 2001; and (10) U.S. Application Ser.
No. 60/335,924, filed on Oct. 31, 2001.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The present invention relates generally to merchandising and
display systems, and in particular, the present invention relates
to a merchandising system providing for orderly presentation,
display, storage, arrangement, and dispensing of articles.
[0004] Conventional merchandising systems may be used for
displaying and dispensing an article. Such conventional
merchandising systems do not realize certain advantageous features
(and/or combinations of features). Conventional merchandising
systems may also be used for displaying products in consumer
settings such as grocery stores, retail outlets, shops, etc. Such
conventional merchandising systems may be used to present, display
and store products in fixed or limited spaces such as on shelves,
in display cases, in cabinets, etc.
[0005] It is beneficial when merchandising an article such as a
product to allow potential customers to view or handle it in a
convenient and comfortable manner. Conventional merchandising
systems may display products to a consumer by providing the
products in inefficient configurations. Products and product
containers come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and some products
may be more difficult to merchandise (e.g., present for potential
retail sale) than others. Within fixed or limited spaces,
conventional merchandising systems may not be configured to
optimize the presentation of such products to a consumer. Such
conventional merchandising systems also do not always provide
convenient ways for dispensing products, especially those with
unique or irregular shapes. Ease of use can be an important concern
for customers and store personnel. As is sometimes the case,
product or container design may be dictated by considerations
separate from the ease or difficulty with which the product may be
presented.
[0006] Some conventional merchandising systems may not provide
effective arrangements for displaying, storing and presenting
articles. Some conventional merchandising systems fail to provide
adequate support for articles, as well as smooth, efficient sliding
of the article along the length of the system. Some conventional
merchandising systems do not provide sufficient arrangements of
advancing these types of articles along the merchandising system.
Some conventional merchandising systems do not provide strong
and/or rigid support for articles. Accordingly, many conventional
merchandising systems may not provide articles in a straight,
linear, or level arrangement due to sagging, deformation, bowing,
deflection and/or movement due to the weight of the articles. In
addition, some conventional merchandising systems do not provide
for a variety of differently sized articles and are not configured
to operate with a variety of shelving structures. Some conventional
merchandising systems do not retain articles for proper dispensing.
Some conventional merchandising systems are not easily
repositionable on a shelving structure. Some conventional
merchandising systems are not configured for easy loading or
removal of articles or for at least partially restricting movement
of the articles along the system. In addition, some conventional
merchandising systems are not configured to allow multiple products
to be stacked on one another. Some conventional merchandising
systems are not configured to prevent articles from sliding in an
uncontrolled manner along the length of the system. Some
conventional merchandising systems are not configured to prevent
articles from tipping and/or falling from the system, especially
during movement of the articles.
[0007] Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide a
merchandising system that is configured for stocking, orderly
presentation, and convenient storage of products with various
shapes including shapes that may not be easily stored, presented,
or displayed, such as products with uniquely shaped containers. It
would also be advantageous to provide a merchandising system that
is configured for selective modularity in the construction and
assembly of the merchandising system. It would further be
advantageous to provide a merchandising system that allows for the
construction and assembly of a merchandising system with any number
of product facings, modules, compartments, etc. It would further be
advantageous to provide a merchandising system that advances a
product and/or allows a product to advance along a defined path. It
would further be advantageous to provide a merchandising system
that self-faces articles (e.g., allows articles to move to the
front of the system after articles are removed). It would be
advantageous to provide a merchandising system that is configured
to easily move articles along a path for stocking, aligning, and/or
facing purposes. It would also be advantageous to provide a
merchandising system that allows multiple (levels of) products to
be stacked on one another. It would further be advantageous to
provide a merchandising system that is configured to at least
partially restrict and/or restrain article movement in one or more
level. It would further be advantageous to provide a merchandising
system that can evenly distribute the weight of articles and/or
products over the length of the system. It would further be
advantageous to provide a merchandising system that allows for
smooth, controlled, and efficient gliding of articles and/or
products along the length of the system. It would further be
advantageous to provide a merchandising system that prevents
articles from tipping and/or falling when provided in the system,
especially during movement of the articles.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The accompanying drawing figures, which are incorporated in
and constitute a part of the description, illustrate several
aspects of the invention and together with the description, serve
to explain the principles of the invention. A brief description of
the figures is as follows:
[0009] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a merchandising system
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 2A is a front perspective view of a merchandising
system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 2B is a front perspective view of a merchandising
system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 2C is a front perspective view of a merchandising
system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 3A is an exploded front perspective view of the
merchandising system of FIG. 2A according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 3B is an exploded front perspective view of the
merchandising system of FIG. 2B according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 3C is an exploded front perspective view of the
merchandising system of FIG. 2C according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 4A is an orthogonal front view of the merchandising
system of FIG. 2A according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 4B is a detailed view of a portion of the merchandising
system of FIG. 4A according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 5A is an orthogonal front view of the merchandising
system of FIG. 2B according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 5B is a detailed view of a portion of the merchandising
system of FIG. 5A according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 6A is an orthogonal front view of the merchandising
system of FIG. 2C according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 6B is a detailed view of a portion of the merchandising
system of FIG. 6A according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 7A is an orthogonal top view of the merchandising
system of FIG. 2A according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 7B is an orthogonal top view of the merchandising
system of FIG. 2B according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 7C is an orthogonal top view of the merchandising
system of FIG. 2C according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 8A is a side view of the merchandising system of FIG.
2A according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 8B is a side view of the merchandising system of FIG.
2B according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 8C is a side view of the merchandising system of FIG.
2C according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 9A is a front perspective view of a merchandising
system comprising tabs according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0029] FIG. 9B is a front perspective view of a merchandising
system comprising tabs according to an alternative embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 10A is a front perspective view of a pusher assembly
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0031] FIG. 10B is a detailed front perspective view of the pusher
assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 10C is a detailed perspective view of the pusher
assembly positioned in a slot according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0033] FIG. 11 is a front orthogonal view of a merchandising system
according to an alternative embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a merchandising
system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0035] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of a merchandising
system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of a merchandising
system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 15 is front elevation view of a merchandising system
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 16 is a bottom perspective view of a merchandising
system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0039] FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of a divider of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0040] FIG. 18 is detailed view of portion of dividers of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0041] FIG. 19 is a detailed view of a portion of dividers of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0042] FIG. 20 is a top elevation view of a member of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0043] FIG. 21 is a side elevation view of a connector of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0044] FIG. 22 is a bottom elevation view of a connector of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0045] FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of a merchandising
system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0046] FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of a merchandising
system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0047] FIG. 25 is a bottom perspective view of a merchandising
system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0048] FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view of a merchandising system
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0049] FIG. 27 is a front perspective view of a divider of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0050] FIG. 28 is a front perspective view of a divider of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0051] FIG. 29 is a front elevation view of a member of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0052] FIG. 30 is a side elevation view of a member of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0053] FIG. 31 is a top elevation view of a member of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0054] FIG. 32 is a front perspective view of a member of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0055] FIG. 33 is a front elevation view of a merchandising system
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0056] FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of the merchandising
system of FIG. 23 taken along line 34-34.
[0057] FIG. 35 is a bottom exploded perspective view of a
merchandising system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0058] FIG. 36 is a top exploded view of a merchandising system
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0059] FIG. 37 is a front perspective view of a merchandising
system according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0060] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a shelf of the
merchandising system of FIG. 37.
[0061] FIG. 39 is a side view of the product holding portion of the
shelf of FIG. 38.
[0062] FIG. 40 is a top view of the shelf of FIG. 39.
[0063] FIG. 41 is a detail view of a product retaining member of
the shelf portion of FIG. 40, showing the area within the oval
labeled 17-17 in FIG. 40.
[0064] FIG. 42 is a detail front perspective view of a portion of
the shelf portion of FIG. 39 with one product retaining member
exploded from its mounting position.
[0065] FIG. 43 is a front perspective exploded view of the shelf
portion of FIG. 39.
[0066] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a double
sided product retaining member of the merchandising system of FIG.
37.
[0067] FIG. 45 is a top view of the product retaining member of
FIG. 44.
[0068] FIG. 46 is a side view of the product retaining member of
FIG. 44.
[0069] FIG. 47 is a front end view of the product retaining member
of FIG. 44.
[0070] FIG. 48 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a single
sided product retaining member of the merchandising system of FIG.
37.
[0071] FIG. 49 is a top view of the product retaining member of
FIG. 48.
[0072] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of one alternative embodiment
of a double sided product retaining member adapted for use with the
merchandising system of FIG. 37.
[0073] FIG. 51 is a top view of the product retaining member of
FIG. 50.
[0074] FIG. 52 is a side view of the product retaining member of
FIG. 50.
[0075] FIG. 53 is a front end view of the product retaining member
of FIG. 50.
[0076] FIG. 54 is a perspective view of one alternative embodiment
of a single sided product retaining member adapted for use with the
merchandising system of FIG. 37.
[0077] FIG. 55 is a top view of the product retaining member of
FIG. 54.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0078] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary aspects of
the present invention which are illustrated in the accompanying
drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be
used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like
parts.
[0079] It is to be understood that the inventions are not limited
to the details or methodology set forth in the following
description or illustrated in the drawings. The inventions are
capable of other embodiments or being practiced or carried out in
various ways. It is also to be understood that the phraseology and
terminology employed is for the purpose of description and should
not be regarded as limiting.
[0080] Referring to the FIGS., exemplary embodiments of a
merchandising system are shown. The merchandising system may
provide for display, space division, and orderly presentation of
products. The merchandising system may provide for selective size
(shown as width) adjustment of a product display, "facing," cell,
compartment, or display area, while not requiring the width
adjustment of adjacent product displays, "facings," cells,
compartments, or display areas. As shown in FIG. 1, a merchandising
system 10 may provide a large number of facings. Should a single
facing need to be adjusted (for example, to accommodate a
differently sized product), that single facing may be readily
adjusted without the need to resize any (or potentially all) of the
remaining facings.
[0081] The merchandising system may further provide for modularity
in the construction and assembly of the merchandising system. For
example, product displays, "facings," cells, compartments, or
display areas may be added and/or removed to an existing
merchandising system by reconfiguring the number and arrangement of
dividers and connectors.
[0082] The merchandising system may be a shelf system, shelf
divider system, product facing tray system, product self-facing and
organization tray system, divider system, shelf tray system, pusher
system, dispensing system, tray system, etc. The merchandising
system may be provided for use on a shelf (or any portion of a
shelf), shelves, racks, displays, or other merchandising systems,
or alternatively may be provided as a separate, independent
merchandising system. According to other alternative embodiments,
the system may be configured or oriented to provide for vertical
size (e.g., height) adjustment.
[0083] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a
merchandising system 10 (e.g., grid system, tray system, shelf
system, display system, case, divider system, storage system,
modular system, etc.) comprises a frame system 12 and a shelving
system 14. Frame system 12 (e.g., mounting structure, shelving
structure, support, framework, frame, base, bar, grid, housing,
storage unit, etc.) comprises a storage unit 52 and a lower portion
48 or section. According to an exemplary embodiment, the system is
a refrigerated system configured to display, store and/or dispense
product. According to an exemplary embodiment, the system may be
configured to contain products and/or containers for foodstuffs or
the like, such as yogurt, to be
[0084] As shown in FIG. 1 storage unit 52 (e.g., support, frame,
mount, member, wall, grid, unit, container, etc.) or other support
is provided for use with frame system 12. According to an exemplary
embodiment shown in FIG. 1 storage unit 52 comprises at least one
side 22 and a top section 24 (e.g., top portion, section, overhead,
roof, housing, cap, cover, etc.). The sides may be provided with
one or more aperture and/or slot for providing an arrangement for
positioning the shelving system with respect to the frame system.
According to alternative embodiments, any suitable device and/or
process may be used to secure the shelving system to the frame
system. According to various alternative embodiments, a wide
variety of storage units, shafts, supports, sides, covers, etc. may
be provided in the merchandising system. According to alternative
embodiments, the number, size, position, overall configuration,
etc. of the storage unit may vary.
[0085] As shown in FIG. 1 lower portion 48 (e.g., bottom area or
section, concavity, opening, area, basket, basin, reservoir,
channel, well, etc.) or other area is provided for use with frame
system 12. According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1,
lower portion 48 comprises an area below sides 22, top section 24
and/or shelving system 14. Lower portion 48 is configured to hold,
store and/or display various articles. According to various
alternative embodiments, a wide variety of bottom sections,
openings, areas, channels, etc. may be provided in the
merchandising system. According to alternative embodiments, the
number, size, position, overall configuration, etc. of the bottom
section may vary.
[0086] As shown in FIG. 1, shelving system 14 (e.g., frame, tray,
shelf system, holder, mounting section or area, etc.) is provided
for use with merchandising system 10. According to an exemplary
embodiment shown in FIG. 1, shelving system 14 comprises a shelf
54.
[0087] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, shelf
54 (e.g., support, frame, guide, beam, ledge, bar, etc.) comprises
a body portion 56 and a first end 58. Referring to FIG. 1, body
portion 56 (e.g., member, straight section or portion, main section
or portion, etc.) is configured to receive and support products as
provided in various merchandising systems.
[0088] Referring to FIG. 1, member or body portion 56 has a
generally uniform cross-section and is configured to have a
longitudinal axis (from a back end to a front end). According to
other embodiments, the body portion may have a cross-section of
various shapes (e.g., triangular, rectangular, oval, etc.) and its
longitudinal axis may be other than straight (such as curved or
arched) and may extend at various angles with respect to the Z-Z
axis. Further, the cross-section of the body portion may be
non-uniform.
[0089] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, body
portion 56 extends at a downward angle with respect to the Z-Z axis
(e.g., sloping toward the ground and/or horizontal). The angled
configuration enables articles to slide toward first end 58 as
other articles are removed from shelf 54. For example, as an
article located nearest first end 58 is removed, the next product
in line is urged forward by gravity toward first end 58.
[0090] Shown in FIGS. 2A is a first exemplary embodiment of a
merchandising system 10a, shown in FIG. 2B is a second exemplary
embodiment of a merchandising system 10b, and shown in FIG. 2C is a
third exemplary embodiment of a merchandising system 10c, wherein
each system may be used with the system described with respect to
FIG. 1. As shown, merchandising systems 10a, 10b, 10c have modular
configurations that include one or more dividers 20a, 20b, 20c
(which may be panels, dividers, separators, divisions, partitions,
tracks, extrusions, panels, channels, or other panels or members,
frames, supports, walls, partitions, guides, etc.) and one or more
connectors 40a, 40b, 40c (which may be interfaces, couplings,
connecting members, adjustment members, "combs," connector modules,
etc.). Dividers 20a, 20b, 20c provide space division, separation,
organization, and merchandise variously sized products (not shown).
Adjacent dividers 20a, 20b are coupled with an intermediate link or
connector 40a, 40b. Adjacent dividers 20c are coupled directly to
one another.
[0091] Dividers 20a are shown in FIGS. 2A, 3A, 4A, 4B, 7A, and 8A.
Dividers 20b are shown in FIGS. 2B, 3B, 5A, 5B, 7B, and 8B.
Dividers 20c are shown in FIGS. 2C, 3C, 6A, 6B, 7C, and 8C.
Dividers 20a, 20b, 20c comprise a panel section (shown as portion
26a, 26b, 26c) and one or more horizontal portions or sections
(shown as portions 28a, 28b, 28c). The divider (which may be
tracks, extrusions, panels, channels, open frame or rail, etc.) may
be provided in a variety of configurations. According to one
particularly preferred embodiment, dividers 20a, 20b include end
dividers and center dividers. End dividers have an "L-shaped" cross
section. Center dividers have a "T-shaped" cross section. End
dividers and center dividers may include solid portions and/or
portions that include apertures or cut-outs. Divider 20a (shown in
FIG. 2A, 3A, 4A, 4B, 7A, and 8A) and 20b (shown in FIGS. 2B, 3B,
5A, 5B, 7B, and 8B) provide a horizontal section, or portion (shown
as portions 28a, 28b), and a panel section, vertical section,
division panel or portion (shown as portions 26a, 26b). Portions
26a, 26b and 28a, 28b form a "T-shaped" cross-section. The end
dividers comprise one portion 28a, 28b on one side of portion 26a,
26b to form an "L-shaped" cross-section. Portion 28a is provided
with friction reducing ribs or protrusions (shown as ribs 30a).
Ribs 30a provide friction reduction on a product support surface
(e.g., portion 28a) such that product which is being displayed or
supported on merchandising system 10a may move more easily along
the length of divider 20a.
[0092] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 2C, 3C,
6A, 6B, 7C, and 8C, divider 20c has a "C-shaped" cross-section.
Divider 20c includes a vertical section or portion 26c, a lower
horizontal section 28c, and an upper horizontal portion 29c.
Portions 28c and 29c are configured to attach to portions of
adjacent dividers 20c. Portions 29c provide additional support for
system 10c. According to various exemplary embodiments, dividers
20c may be connected together according to any suitable method
(e.g., fasteners, adhesives, sonic welding, etc.). Once a desired
number of dividers 20c have been connected, a separate wall 27c is
coupled to the end divider to form system 10c. According to various
alternative embodiments, any number of devices may be used instead
of wall 27c (e.g., a separate end divider may be used that includes
two side walls, an upper portion, and a lower portion). Portions
29c, 26c, and wall 27c are shown including apertures 31 c.
Apertures 31 c may be used to reduce the amount of material
required to manufacture the system and can reduce production costs.
According to an alternative embodiment, dividers 20c may be have an
"L-shaped" cross-section. Instead of included portions 29c which
are integrally formed as part of dividers 20c, a separate top
portion may be provided that couples to the dividers to provide
overall structural support to the system. The top portion may
couple to the end portions and center portions according to any
suitable arrangement (e.g., fasteners, adhesives, sonic welding,
etc.). The top portion may align with the end dividers to provide
an overall rectangle shape. According to alternative embodiments,
any number of shapes may be used (e.g., square, pyramid, curved,
etc.).
[0093] Divider 20a further includes one or more engagement portions
32a configured to engage, couple, connect, coact or otherwise
interface with connector 40a. As shown in FIG. 4A, engagement
portion 32a comprises a projection or leg 34a provided on a bottom
side of divider 20a. Leg 34a is configured to engage with connector
40a. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, leg 34a
engages connector 40a via a friction-fit or interference-fit.
According to another particularly preferred embodiment shown in
FIG. 4B, leg 34a may be provided with a groove or depression (shown
as depression 36a) which is configured to interface with a
projection 42a on a tooth 44a of a groove 46a of connector 40a.
[0094] According to a second and third embodiment shown in FIGS.
5A, 5B and 6A, 6B, dividers 20b and 20c include one or more
engagement portions 32b and 32c on a top side of dividers 20b and
20c. The bottom sides of dividers 20b and 20c are configured to lay
(e.g., rest) directly on a shelf (e.g., shelf 54 shown in FIG. 1).
Engagement portions 32b and 32c are configured to engage with
grooves 46b, 46c of connectors 40b and 40c (e.g., projections 42b,
42c and teeth 44b, 44c) and comprise projections or legs 34b and
34c. According to an alternative embodiment, the divider may be
provided without engagement portions. The connector 40c may be
configured to lay (e.g., rest) on top of the horizontal surface of
the divider and remain movable with respect to the divider.
According to an exemplary embodiment, the connector may include a
flat undersurface that rests on the divider. According to various
alternative embodiments, any number of configurations may be
utilized.
[0095] As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, dividers 20a, 20b may be
further provided with a slot 50a, 50b (which may be a slot,
channel, track, guide, pusher track, etc.) for receiving a pusher
assembly 60a, 60b or other product biasing mechanism (e.g., arm,
rod, member, puller, etc.). It should be noted that the various
embodiments of the merchandising system shown may be used with any
type of panel or divider sections (or partitions), including
merchandising systems that are provided without pushers or product
biasing mechanisms (e.g., system 10c). According to various other
exemplary embodiments, the slot may be omitted (e.g., system
10c).
[0096] Dividers 20a, 20b include guides 78a, 78b (e.g., runners,
tabs, ribs, supports, etc.) located along the sides of dividers
20a, 20b. According to an exemplary embodiment, guides 78a, 78b are
coupled to (e.g., attached to, affixed to, etc.) dividers 20a, 20b.
Guides 78a, 78b have an overall circular cross-section with a
substantially hollow interior portion 84a, 84b. According to
alternative embodiments, the guides may have a cross section of any
other suitable shape (e.g., oval, triangular, rectangular, etc.)
that will allow articles to be positioned on the shelf. Guides may
be used to direct (e.g., guide) the articles along the shelf as
they are dispensed. According to an exemplary embodiment, guides
78a, 78b provide at least some resistance to prevent sliding of the
article when not being dispensed or to slow the dispensing of
articles. According to various embodiments, the guides may be
integrally formed with the sides of the frame. According to various
alternative embodiments, the guides may be formed separately and
then connected to the frame by suitable attachment process (e.g.,
gluing, taping, adhering, sonic welding, etc.).
[0097] According to an alternative embodiment shown in FIGS. 2C,
3C, and 6B, guides 78c include channels or tracks 82c. Tracks 82c
are intended to provide additional support for products that slide
along the system. According to a preferred embodiment shown in
FIGS. 2C, 6A, 6B and 8C, a second product (shown as yogurt
container 81 c) is supported entirely by a first product (shown as
yogurt container 83c). As each product slides along the system, the
second product may become unstable. Tracks 82c provide support to a
lower portion of the second product to maintain stability of the
second product and prevent the second product from falling over.
According to alternative embodiments, the tracks may completely
and/or at least partially support the products when provided in the
system (e.g., some or all articles may be supported by the track if
an article becomes displaced).
[0098] Connectors 40a (shown in FIGS. 2A, 3A, 4A, 4B, 7A, and 8A),
40b (shown in FIGS. 2B, 3B, 5A, 5B, 7B, and 8B), 40c (shown in
FIGS. 2C, 3C, 6A, 6B, 7C, and 8C) of merchandising systems 10a,
10b, 10c may be flat elongated members (which may be a web, mat,
etc.). As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, 5A-5B, and 6A-6B, connectors 40a,
40b, 40c may be provided with a series of grooves 46a, 46b, 46c
(which may be notches, grooves, cuts, etc.) thereby forming a
series of teeth 44a, 44b, 44c (which may be projections,
extensions, etc.). According to various alternative embodiments, a
connector may be provided with a series or index of grooves along a
portion (either width or length) of the connector (i.e., provided
along a partial width or partial length of the connector).
According to various alternative embodiments, grooves may be
provided at any desired spacing, with any desired number of
grooves.
[0099] Connectors 40a, 40b, 40c configured to coact (e.g., receive,
couple, engage or otherwise connect) with dividers 20a, 20b, 20c.
As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, 5A-5B, and 6A-6B, the width of grooves
46a, 46b, 46c is approximately equal to the width of legs 34a, 34b,
34c on dividers 20a, 20b, 20c. Legs 34a, 34b, 34c are intended to
provide for a more secure engagement between the connectors 40a,
40b, 40c and dividers 20a, 20b, 20c, by "snapping" or projecting
into recess or grooves 46a, 46b, 46c. According to an exemplary
embodiment, the projections are slightly rounded along a bottom
edge so that they may "snap" into the slots on the connectors. For
example, grooves 46a, 46b, 46c include "teeth" or extensions 44a,
4b, 44c along the upper portion that are configured to grip rounded
edges 36a, 36b, 36c of legs 34a, 34b, 34c.
[0100] As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, 5A-5B, and 6A-6B, connector 40a
engages the bottom side of dividers 20a whereas connectors 40b, 40c
engage the upper side of dividers 20b, 20c. Connectors 40b, 40c are
intended to extend substantially the length of dividers 20b, 20c.
Connectors 40b, 40c advantageously allow products to slide along an
entire solid surface. Connectors 40b, 40c are provided with
friction reducing ribs or protrusions (shown as ribs 30b, 30c).
Ribs 30b, 30c provide friction reduction on a product support
surface such that product which is being displayed or supported on
merchandising system 10a may move more easily along the length of
connector 40b, 40c.
[0101] According to an alternative embodiment, the connector may be
provided with a series of straight grooves and teeth. According to
other various alternative embodiments, a variety of shapes, sizes,
spacings, arrangements, and other configurations may be provided
with the connector. According to various alternative embodiments,
the connector may comprise tabs or teeth that interlock with the
dividers in predetermined locations, thereby adjusting the distance
between dividers. According to various other embodiments, the
connector may comprise slide mechanisms that enable the divider to
slide from one position to another. According to various other
embodiments, the connector may comprise any other suitable
mechanism for adjusting the divider position, configuration,
orientation, etc.
[0102] Connectors 40a, 40b, 40c may be provided in one or a variety
of unit sizes (e.g., length or width) or shapes (e.g., orthogonal
or diagonal or curved). According to a particularly preferred
embodiment, connector 40a has a length in the range of about 2 to 8
inches. According to another particularly preferred embodiment,
connector 40a has a length of about 2 to 4 inches. Alternatively,
the connector may be provided in (or may be "field-cut" to) a
variety of lengths or sizes which allow for the connectivity and/or
interface with dividers. According to an exemplary embodiment,
connectors 40b, 40c have lengths in the range of about 10.0 inches
to 36.0 inches. According to a preferred embodiment, connectors
40b, 40c have lengths in the range of about 14 inches to about 26
inches.
[0103] One or more connectors may be provided between adjacent
dividers. Providing one connector between adjacent dividers allows
the connector to be easily accessed from the front, thereby
allowing for adjustment to be accomplished relatively easily.
Providing two connectors between adjacent dividers provides for
added stability between adjacent dividers.
[0104] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A
through 3C, a display portion or device 70a, 70b, 70c may be
attached to shelving systems 10a, 10b, 10c for displaying
information about the articles (e.g., price, manufacturer, bar
code, etc.). As shown in FIGS. 2A through 3C, display portions 70a,
70b, 70c include a front slot or channel 86a, 86b, 86c configured
to receive graphics, pricing, bar codes, and/or other information.
Channels 86a, 86b, 86c are configured to provide a "stop" for
products that are located at the front of the systems. As products
advance toward the front of the systems, the products reach
channels 86a, 86b, 86c provide a surface for at least partially
restraining movement of the products. According to an exemplary
embodiment, the lower portions of products rest against the display
portions. Display portions 70a, 70b, 70c include back portions 88a,
88b, 88c which are intended to lay on the shelf. According to
various embodiments, any suitable device or method may be used to
secure the display portion to the shelving system (e.g., gluing,
taping, adhering, fastening, etc.). According to an exemplary
embodiment, the display portion may be integrally formed with the
shelf, divider, and/or connector.
[0105] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A
through 3C and 9A through 9B, a tab 80a, 80b, 80c (e.g., front
stop, stopper, block, obstruction, plug, cap, etc.) is provided
with dividers 20a, 20b, 20c that couples to (e.g., connects to,
attaches to, is affixed to, etc.) front ends 62a, 62b, 62c of
dividers 20a, 20b, 20c. As shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B, tabs
80a, 80b are attached to guides 78a, 78b, (e.g., in interior hollow
portions 84a, 84b of guides 78a, 78b) by way of a fastening device
(shown as screw 92a in FIG. 9A) such as a nail, screw, clip, etc.
The tab may be coupled to the divider according to any suitable
device or method, and may be formed separately or integrally with
the divider. According to an alternative embodiment shown in FIGS.
2C, 3C, and 9B, tab 80c attaches to divider 20c by sliding into a
channel 94c located on divider 20c. Tab 80c includes two members
96c configured to fit within channels 94c positioned on each side
of divider 20c. Tab 80c is held in place by friction between
members 96c and channels 94c. Ridges may be included on the members
and/or the channels to increase resistance. As shown in FIGS. 2A
through 3C and 9A through 9B, tabs 80a, 80b, 80c include gripped
surfaces 98a, 98b, 98c. Gripped surfaces 98a, 98b, 98c allow
articles to be dispensed as desired by providing enough resistance
to keep the articles from inadvertently sliding from the
merchandising system.
[0106] Tab 80a, 80b is preferably configured such that it restrains
the movement of articles being dispensed or urged forward by
gravity. According to an exemplary embodiment, tabs 80a, 80b, 80c
include an outer curved portion 79a, 79b, 79c configured to provide
a return angle for easy reloading of the system. According to an
exemplary embodiment, the tabs provided on the divider provide
resistance against force applied by the pusher assembly urging
articles toward the front of the shelf. In the illustrated
embodiment, the tabs are configured such that the removal of an
article from the shelf requires more force than the angle of the
shelf provides. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7C, as articles are
removed through tabs 80a and 80c, members 96a and 96c move in the
direction of the arrows (yogurt containers 103a, 102c at sections
"D"). When products are stocked and/or returned through the
members, outer curved portions 79a, 79c move in the direction of
the arrows to allow the product to be placed in the system. The
angle of the shelf provides enough force to overcome the friction
that may be present between the articles and the shelf, thereby
enabling movement of the articles toward the first end of the
shelf. According to alternative embodiments, other members may be
provided to restrain such movement.
[0107] According to an exemplary embodiment, pusher assembly 60a,
60b (e.g., follower, puller, plate, hook, pull tab, paddle, pusher,
biasing device, etc.) is provided with systems 10a, 10b. Pusher
assemblies 60a, 60b are provided for use with merchandising systems
10a, 10b for urging articles in one direction or another. According
to exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B, pusher
assemblies 60a, 60b include plates 64a, 64b (e.g., hooks, pullers,
tabs, etc.) and members 66a, 66b (e.g., rods, extensions, arms,
etc.). According to a preferred embodiment, plates 64a, 64b and
members 66a, 66b are integrally formed as one piece. According to
various other embodiments, the plate and member may be formed
separately and then attached according to any suitable method
(e.g., gluing, taping, adhering, etc.). According to an exemplary
embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B, pusher assemblies
60a, 60b are provided for contacting, coacting, biasing, pushing
and/or pulling articles placed in merchandising systems 10a, 10b.
According to alternative embodiments, the pusher assembly may be
provided in a variety of sizes and shapes depending on the
particular needs associated with the overall merchandising
system.
[0108] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B,
3A, and 3B, pusher assemblies 60a, 60b include members 66a, 66b
which slide through a slot or channel 50a, 50b of dividers 20a,
20b. According to an exemplary embodiment, pusher assemblies 60a,
60b are configured to move (and thereby pull articles) toward a
rear 16a, 16b of merchandising systems 10a, 10b. According to
alternative embodiments, the member may be attached to the guide by
any other suitable arrangement such as fasteners, screws, rivets,
bolts, snaps, clips, clamps or other various connectors or
connection methods. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, members 66a, 66b
may include a handle 72a, 72b at an end 68a, 68b of members 66a,
66b. Handles 72a, 72b act to prevent members 66a, 66b from sliding
too far along slots 50a, 50b because handles 72a, 72b are
configured to be larger than the diameter of slot openings at the
rear of the dividers. As shown in FIGS. 10A through 10C, members
66a, 66b include a raised portioned 74a, 74b (which may be a bump,
extension, etc.) configured to provide tension against slots 50a,
50b as members 66a, 66b are slid through slots 50a, 50b. According
to an exemplary embodiment, members 66a, 66b include apertures or
openings 76a, 76b. Openings 76a, 76b are located adjacent to raised
portions 74a, 74b to provide some flexibility as raised portions
74a, 74b slide along slots 50a, 50b. Openings 76a, 76b are able to
flex inward as members 66a, 66b are moved along slots 50a, 50b.
According to an exemplary embodiment, pusher assemblies 60a, 60b
may be provided with indicia (e.g., on the face) and may be
provided in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit the application
(e.g., product size).
[0109] According to an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 12,
pusher assembly 60d is pulled toward a front 18d of system 10d.
Preferably, system 10d is used with a substantially horizontal
shelf so that pusher assembly 60d is used to pull articles toward
front 18d to align products after supplies have been depleted by
customers (e.g., fewer products left on the shelf). When stocking,
articles are fed through tabs 80d at front 18d of system 10d. The
articles push assembly 60d backwards toward a rear 16d of system
10d.
[0110] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8A,
articles 90a (shown as yogurt containers) may be stocked (e.g.,
loaded) in multiple layers (preferably two levels of yogurt
containers) on merchandising system 10a along wire shelf supports
55a. System 10a includes wire connectors 57a for coupling or
engaging wire shelf supports 55a. According to an exemplary
embodiment, wire connectors may be provided. Similarly, any number
of systems may be provided on wire shelf supports. According to the
exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8A, wire shelf supports 55a
provide an overall downward angle with respect to the Z-Z axis.
According to an exemplary embodiment, wire shelf supports 55a
create an angle in the range of about 4 to 10 degrees with respect
to the Z-Z axis (e.g., the horizontal). According to a preferred
embodiment, wire shelf supports 55a creates an angle of about 6 to
8 degrees with respect to the Z-Z axis. Articles may be stocked
(e.g., loaded) in multiple layers from either the front or rear of
the merchandising system. According to a preferred embodiment,
articles are stocked onto the merchandising system from rear end
16a. Before stocking the articles, pusher assembly 60a is pulled
toward rear end 16a of system 10a. As articles 90a are loaded onto
dividers 20a, pusher assembly 60a provides resistance or a biasing
force against the articles so that each article does not slide in
an uncontrolled manner toward front end 18a of system 10a. If the
articles are free to slide toward front end 18a, the articles could
tip over or fall from the merchandising system altogether. After
dividers 20a have been fully (or partially loaded) as desired,
pusher assembly 60a is positioned at font end 18a of system 10a by
sliding pusher assembly 60a along slot 50a, thereby allowing
articles 90a to slide to front end 18a as well. Pusher assembly 60a
may then remain at front end 18a as articles are dispensed. The
process may be repeated as necessary each time the shelf is
stocked. (See FIG. 7A). According to an alternative embodiment, the
pusher assembly may be provided without the guides that are
intended to provide suitable resistance to prevent articles from
tipping over or falling out of the system when sliding along
connector. Guides 78a are configured to provide support to the
sides of articles loaded in the system as the articles advance.
[0111] According to a second embodiment shown in FIG. 8B, articles
90b (shown as yogurt containers) may be stocked (e.g., loaded) in
multiple layers (preferably two or three levels of yogurt
containers) on merchandising system 10b along shelves 54b. Shelf
54b is angled downward with respect to the Z-Z axis in FIG. 8B.
According to an exemplary embodiment, shelf 54b is at an angle in
the range of about 2 to 10 degrees with respect to the Z-Z axis
(e.g., the horizontal). According to a preferred embodiment, shelf
54b is at an angle of about 4 to 7 degrees with respect to the Z-Z
axis. Articles may be stocked (e.g., loaded) in multiple layers
from either the front or rear of the merchandising system.
According to a preferred embodiment, articles are stocked onto the
merchandising system from rear end 16b. Before stocking the
articles, pusher assembly 60b is pulled toward rear end 16b of
shelf 54b. As articles 90b are loaded onto shelf 54b, pusher
assembly 60b provides resistance or a biasing force against the
articles so that each article does not slide in an uncontrolled
manner toward front end 18b of system 10b. If the articles are free
to slide toward front end 18b, the articles could tip over or fall
from the merchandising system altogether. After shelf 54b has been
fully (or partially loaded) as desired, pusher assembly 60b is
positioned at font end 18b of shelf 54b by sliding pusher assembly
60b along slot 50b, thereby allowing articles 90b to slide to front
end 18b as well. Pusher assembly 60b may then remain at front end
18b as articles are dispensed. The process may be repeated as
necessary each time the shelf is stocked. According to an
alternative embodiment, the pusher assembly may be provided without
guides that are intended to provide suitable resistance to prevent
articles from tipping over or falling out of the system when
sliding along the connector. Guides 78b are configured to provide
support to the sides of articles loaded in the system as the
articles advance.
[0112] According to a second embodiment shown in FIG. 8C, articles
90c (shown as yogurt containers) may be stocked (e.g., loaded) in
multiple layers (preferably three levels of yogurt containers) on
merchandising system 10c along shelves 54c. Shelf 54c is angled
downward with respect to the Z-Z axis in FIG. 8C. According to an
exemplary embodiment, shelf 54c is at an angle in the range of
about 2 to 10 degrees with respect to the Z-Z axis (e.g., the
horizontal). According to a preferred embodiment, shelf 54c is at
an angle of about 6 to 8 degrees with respect to the Z-Z axis.
Articles may be stocked (e.g., loaded) in multiple layers from
either the front or rear of the merchandising system. According to
a preferred embodiment, articles are stocked onto the merchandising
system from rear end 16c. Tracks 82c are intended to provide
support if needed to prevent articles from tipping over or falling
out of the system when sliding along connector 40c. Tracks 82c are
configured to provide support to portions of articles loaded in
that begin to tip over or fall out of the system as the articles
advance. Under normal use, tracks 82c are not intended to contact
the articles (e.g., yogurt containers) which are supported by
either connector 40c (e.g., the bottom yogurt container) or a
yogurt container underneath a particular yogurt container.
According to an alternative embodiment, a pusher assembly may be
utilized to help prevent articles from sliding at an undesirable
rate along the system.
[0113] Shown in FIG. 13 is a first exemplary embodiment of a
merchandising system 110a and shown in FIG. 23 is a second
exemplary embodiment of a merchandising system 110b, wherein each
system may be used with the system described with respect to FIG.
1. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 23, merchandising systems 110a, 110b
have modular configurations that include one or more dividers 120a,
120b (which may be panels, dividers, separators, divisions,
partitions, tracks, extrusions, panels, channels, or other panels
or members, frames, supports, walls, partitions, guides, etc.) and
one or more members or connectors 140a, 140b (which may be
interfaces, couplings, connecting members, adjustment members,
"combs," connector modules, tracks, etc.). Dividers 120a, 120b
provide space division, separation, organization, and merchandise
variously sized products. Adjacent dividers 120a are coupled
directly to one another. Adjacent dividers 120b are coupled with an
intermediate link or connector 140b.
[0114] Dividers 120a are shown in FIGS. 13 through 19. Dividers
120b are shown in FIGS. 23 through 28 and 33 through 36. Dividers
120a, 120b comprise a panel section (shown as portion 126a, 126b)
and one or more horizontal portions or sections (shown as portions
128a, 128b). The divider (which may be tracks, extrusions, panels,
channels, open frame or rail, etc.) may be provided in a variety of
configurations. According to one particularly preferred embodiment,
dividers 120a, 120b include end dividers and center dividers. The
dividers may have an "L-shaped" cross section and/or the dividers
may have a "T-shaped" cross section. The dividers may include solid
portions and/or portions that include apertures or cut-outs.
Divider 120a (shown in FIGS. 13 through 19) and 120b (shown in
FIGS. 23 through 28 and 33 through 36) provide a horizontal
section, or portion (shown as portions 128a, 128b), and a panel
section, vertical section, division panel or portion (shown as
portions 126a, 126b). As shown in FIGS. 25, 35 and 36, portions
126b of system 110b are laterally spaced apart on a single side of
divider 120b and are staggered on each side of divider 120b. The
staggered configuration allows the system to provide additional
support to products while reducing the amount of material needed to
manufacture the dividers. Member 140a, 140b may be provided on
portion 128a and includes friction reducing ribs or protrusions
(shown as ribs 130a, 130b). Ribs 130a, 130b provide friction
reduction on a product support surface (e.g., portion 128a, 128b)
such that product which is being displayed or supported on
merchandising system 110a, 110b may move more easily along the
length of divider 120a, 120b. According to an exemplary embodiment,
dividers 120a, 120b include vertical ribs 122a, 122b (e.g., bars,
members, supports, etc.) for added rigidity and/or stability. The
ribs may be integrally formed with the divider, formed separately
from the divider and fastened according to a suitable manner, etc.
According to various exemplary embodiments, the dividers may be
connected together according to any suitable method (e.g.,
fasteners, connectors, adhesives, sonic welding, etc.). Once a
desired number of dividers have been connected, a separate wall may
be coupled to the end divider to form the system. According to
various alternative embodiments, any number of devices may be used
instead of a wall (e.g., a separate end divider may be used that
includes two side walls, an upper portion, and a lower portion).
According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the dividers
comprise a "fixed width" system and are not intended to be
adjustable in width once connected to adjacent dividers (e.g., the
width between adjacent dividers is not intended to be
adjustable).
[0115] As shown in FIGS. 13, 14, 21 and 22, separate connectors
150a (e.g., fasteners, clips, members, "snap-on top cap," etc.) are
be provided that couple dividers 120a together to provide overall
structural support to the system. The connectors are configured to
couple to the end portions and center portions according to any
suitable arrangement (e.g., fasteners, adhesives, sonic welding,
etc.). As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, connectors 150a couple to upper
edges 152a of dividers 120a within channels or grooves 154a of
connectors 150a. Grooves 154a comprise legs 156a configured to be
inserted into apertures 158a (e.g., slots) provided on dividers
120a. The connectors may align with the dividers to provide an
overall rectangle shape. Connectors 150a may be locked in place by
applying downward force to cause connectors 150a and divider
apertures 158a to engage. According to other alternative
embodiments, any number of shapes may be used (e.g., square,
pyramid, curved, etc.). Connectors 150a may comprise apertures or
cut-outs 159a to reduce manufacturing costs. Connectors 150a
comprise staggered legs 156a so that a single mold may be used to
make each connector used in system 110a. A staggered configuration
is intended to allow the connectors to couple to the dividers at
different locations on adjacent dividers.
[0116] Divider 120a further includes one or more engagement
portions 132a (e.g., interlocking arrangements such as coacting
"dovetail" members) configured to engage, couple, connect, coact or
otherwise interface with apertures or openings 121a provided on the
sides of dividers 120a. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 18, engagement
portion 132a comprises a projection or leg 134a provided on a
bottom side or edge of divider 120a. Leg 134a is configured to
engage with apertures 121a. According to a particularly preferred
embodiment, leg 134a engages apertures 121 a with a friction-fit or
interference-fit to couple adjacent dividers together.
[0117] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 23, 28,
34 and 36, dividers 120b include one or more engagement portions
132b (e.g., grooves) on a top side of dividers 120b. The bottom
sides of dividers 120b are configured to lay (e.g., rest) directly
on a shelf (e.g., shelf 54 shown in FIG. 1). Engagement portions
132b are configured to engage with projections 146b (e.g., teeth)
of connectors 140b and comprise channels or grooves 133b. According
to an alternative embodiment, the divider may be provided without
engagement portions of the type shown in the FIGS. The connector
may be configured to lay (e.g., rest) on top of the horizontal
surface of the divider and remain movable with respect to the
divider. According to an exemplary embodiment, the connector may
include a flat undersurface that rests on the divider. According to
various other alternative embodiments, any number of configurations
may be utilized.
[0118] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 13-15,
17, 19, 23, 28, and 33, dividers 120a, 120b include channels or
tracks 182a, 182b. Tracks 182a, 182b are intended to provide
additional support for products that slide along the system.
According to a preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 15 and 33, a
second product (shown as yogurt container 181a, 181b) is supported
entirely by a first product (shown as yogurt container 183a, 183b).
As each product slides along the system, the second product may
become unstable. Tracks 182a, 182b provide support to a lower
portion of the second product to maintain stability of the second
product and prevent the second product from falling over. According
to alternative embodiments, the tracks may completely and/or at
least partially support the products when provided in the system
(e.g., some or all articles may be supported by the track if an
article becomes displaced). According to various exemplary
embodiments, the tracks may be integrally formed with the dividers,
formed separate from the dividers, etc.
[0119] Connectors 140b (shown in FIGS. 23 through 25, 33 through 34
and 36) of merchandising systems 110b may be flat elongated members
(which may be a web, mat, etc.). As shown in FIG. 34, connectors
140b may be provided with a series of projections 146b (which may
be notches, grooves, cuts, etc.) thereby forming a series of teeth
144b (which may be projections, extensions, etc.). According to
various alternative embodiments, a connector may be provided with a
series or projections along a portion (either width or length) of
the connector (i.e., provided along a partial width or partial
length of the connector). According to various alternative
embodiments, grooves may be provided at any desired spacing, with
any desired number of grooves.
[0120] Connectors 140b are configured to coact (e.g., couple,
engage or otherwise connect) with dividers 120b. As shown in FIG.
34, the width of projections 146b is approximately equal to the
width of grooves 133b on dividers 120b. Grooves 133b are intended
to provide for a secure engagement between the connectors 140b and
dividers 120b by allowing projections 146b to "snap" or project
into recess or grooves 146b. According to an exemplary embodiment,
the projections are slightly rounded along a bottom edge so that
they may "snap" into the slots on the connectors. Projections 146b
may be coupled to different grooves 146b to adjust the width
between adjacent dividers. As shown in FIG. 23, dividers 120b are
separated by a width W3. As shown in FIG. 26, dividers 120b are
separated by a width W4 which is greater than W3. Connectors 140b
are intended to extend substantially the length of dividers 120b.
Connectors 120b advantageously allow products to slide along an
entire solid surface. Connectors 140b are provided with friction
reducing ribs or protrusions (shown as ribs 130b). Ribs 130b
provide friction reduction on a product support surface such that
product which is being displayed or supported on merchandising
system 110b may move more easily along the length of connector
140b. According to various exemplary embodiments, the connectors
may be extruded plastic and may be impregnated with silicone.
[0121] According to an alternative embodiment, the connector may be
provided with a series of straight grooves and teeth. According to
other various alternative embodiments, a variety of shapes, sizes,
spacings, arrangements, and other configurations may be provided
with the connector. According to various alternative embodiments,
the connector may comprise tabs or teeth that interlock with the
dividers in predetermined locations, thereby adjusting the distance
between dividers. According to various other embodiments, the
connector may comprise slide mechanisms that enable the divider to
slide from one position to another. According to various other
embodiments, the connector may comprise any other suitable
mechanism for adjusting the divider position, configuration,
orientation, etc.
[0122] According to an exemplary embodiment, a display portion or
device may be attached to the shelving systems for displaying
information about the articles (e.g., price, manufacturer, bar
code, etc.). The display portions may include a front slot or
channel configured to receive graphics, pricing, bar codes, and/or
other information. The channels may be configured to provide a
"stop" for products that are located at the front of the systems.
As products advance toward the front of the systems, the products
reach the channels provide a surface for at least partially
restraining movement of the products. According to various
embodiments, any suitable device or method may be used to secure
the display portion to the shelving system (e.g., gluing, taping,
adhering, fastening, etc.). According to an exemplary embodiment,
the display portion may be integrally formed with the shelf,
divider, and/or connector. According to various exemplary
embodiments, the display portion (e.g., extruded) shown in FIGS. 3A
through 3C and 9A through 9B may be used with systems shown in
FIGS. 13 through 36.
[0123] As shown in FIGS. 17, 19, 20, 26 and 34, members 170a, 170b
(e.g., stop, bar, etc.) are coupled to a apertures, shown as
keyhole openings 172a, 172b, at rear portions 174a, 174b of systems
110a, 110b. Members 170a, 170b are configured to prevent and/or
stop product from falling out of the back of the shelving system
(e.g., by force applied from the front of the system, sliding,
etc.). The member may be coupled to the divider according to any
suitable method. As shown in FIGS. 17, 19, 20, 26 and 34, portions
171a, 171b of members 170a, 170b are placed through openings 172a,
172b and coupled to dividers 120a, 120b by friction fit. Members
170a are configured to include a hinge 176a that allows portions
175a to pivot toward the front of system 110a as product is being
stocked or loaded into system 110a. As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20,
portion 175a is pivoting in a direction to allow product to be
placed in system 110a between dividers 120a.
[0124] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 13, 14,
17, 23, 24, 25, 29 through 32, and 33, a tab 180a, 180b (e.g.,
finger, front stop, stopper, block, obstruction, plug, cap, etc.)
is provided with dividers 120a, 120b that couples to (e.g.,
connects to, attaches to, is affixed to, etc.) front ends 162a,
162b of dividers 120a, 120b. According to an exemplary embodiment
shown in FIGS. 13, 14, 23 and 24, tabs 180a, 180b attach to
dividers 120a, 120b by sliding into channels 194a, 194b located on
dividers 120a, 120b. Tabs 180a, 180b include two members 196a, 196b
configured to fit within channels 194a, 194b positioned on each
side of divider 120a, 120b. Tabs 180a, 180b are held in place by
friction between members 196a, 196b and channels 194a, 194b.
Members 196a, 196b include portions 197a, 197b that "snap" into
place within channels 194a, 194b. Ridges and/or gripped surfaces
may be included on the members and/or the channels to increase
resistance between product and the members. According to an
exemplary embodiment, the tab is made from clear injection molded
material.
[0125] According to embodiments shown in FIGS. 13, 15, 24, and 33,
articles 190a, 190b (shown as yogurt containers) may be stocked
(e.g., loaded) in multiple layers (preferably three levels of
yogurt containers) on merchandising system 110a, 110b. The
merchandising system is preferably configured to be placed on an
inclined shelf arranged so that the product advances toward the
front of the system by the force of gravity. The systems shown in
FIGS. 13-36 may be placed on shelves such as those shown in FIGS.
8A, 8B and 8C. According to an exemplary embodiment, the shelf may
be at an angle in the range of about 2 to 10 degrees with respect
to the horizontal axis. According to a preferred embodiment, the
shelf is at an angle of about 6 to 8 degrees with respect to the
horizontal axis. Articles may be stocked (e.g., loaded) in multiple
layers from either the front or rear of the merchandising system.
According to a preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 13, 15, 24, and
33, articles are stocked onto the merchandising system from rear
end 116a, 116b. Tracks 182a, 182b are intended to provide support
if needed to prevent articles from tipping over or falling out of
the system when sliding along connector 140a, 140b. Under normal
use, tracks 182a, 182b are not intended to contact the articles
(e.g., yogurt containers) which are supported by either connector
140a, 140b (e.g., the bottom yogurt container) or a yogurt
container underneath a particular yogurt container. According to an
alternative embodiment, a pusher assembly may be utilized to help
prevent articles from sliding at an undesirable rate along the
system. According to other alternative embodiments, the tracks may
contact the articles under normal or other use.
[0126] According to various exemplary embodiments, the assemblies
and components of the merchandising system may be constructed from
a variety of suitable materials, including metals, metal alloys,
aluminum, polymers, composites, plastics (including high impact
plastics and injection molded plastic), ceramics, etc.
[0127] According to various exemplary embodiments, the frame system
may be constructed from metal, metal alloys, aluminum, plastics,
polymers, composites, etc. According to other alternative
embodiments, any other suitable material may be used to construct
the frame system. According to an exemplary embodiment, the frame
system may be chrome plated to improve aesthetic appeal.
[0128] According to various exemplary embodiments, the shelf may be
constructed from metal, metal alloys, aluminum, plastics, polymers,
composites, etc. According to a preferred embodiment, the shelf is
constructed from metal or metal alloys. According to alternative
embodiments, any other suitable material may be used to construct
the shelf. According to an exemplary embodiment, the shelf is
approximately 10 to 30 inches wide and approximately 30 to 60
inches long. According to a preferred embodiment, the shelf is
about 20 inches wide by about 48 inches long. According to an
exemplary embodiment, the shelf is about 0.25 inch to about 1 inch
thick. According to a preferred embodiment, the shelf is about
0.625 inch thick.
[0129] According to an exemplary embodiment, the shelves may be
spaced at various distances from one another. For example, the
shelves may be spaced about 6 inches to about 9 inches apart.
According to a preferred embodiment, the shelves are spaced about 7
to 8 inches apart, thereby leaving about 4 to 7 inches of stocking
space.
[0130] The divider and pusher assembly may generally be made from
injection molded plastic or from a variety of other plastics,
polymers, composites, and processes (e.g., extrusion, cast, etc.).
For example, the divider may be constructed from high-impact
plastics, polymers, other plastics, and the like. The various
components of the divider may be formed separately and then
connected using a sonic welding process (or other suitable
attachment technique). Using plastic offers several advantages
including that the pieces are moldable in a variety of different
colors, surface finishes, textures, etc. According to an exemplary
embodiment, some or all of the components may be clear (e.g.,
opaque) to show products within the system. Other suitable
materials (including metal, metal alloys, aluminum, etc.) may be
used according to alternative embodiments. According to various
exemplary embodiments, each component of the divider and pusher
assembly may be sized to operate with various sized yogurt
containers. For example, the pusher assembly may include a member
that is approximately 48 inches long and a plate that is
approximately 1 to 5 inches wide. According to various other
embodiments, the member and plate may be any suitable size to
operate with various sized articles.
[0131] According to one particularly preferred embodiment, the
connectors are constructed from extruded plastic. According to one
alternative embodiment, the connectors may be constructed from
injection molded plastic. A variety of plastics may be used in
constructing or assembling the connectors. For example, the
connectors may be constructed or assembled from high-impact
plastics, polymers, high-impact plastic. Using plastic offers
several advantages including that the pieces may be constructed in
a variety of different colors, surface finished, textures, etc.
According to various alternative embodiments, a variety of other
known or suitable materials may be used including metals, alloys,
composites, etc.
[0132] According to one exemplary embodiment, the divider is
constructed by co-extruding a material of a first rigidity (or
flexibility) with a material of a second rigidity (or flexibility).
According to an exemplary embodiment, the divider is a dual
durometer extrusion having portions constructed from a rigid PVC,
and portions constructed from a flexible, low tack, or "gummy" PVC.
The friction material (such as a "gummy" material) assists the
merchandising system to stay in place during use by increasing the
friction between the divider and the support surface such as a
shelf. Additionally, the friction portion helps to increase the
engagement between the connector and the divider, thereby helping
to prevent motion of the divider in a direction along the length of
the divider. According to various exemplary embodiments, non-skid
material, other friction material, non-skid feet (e.g., of rubber
or another elastomeric material or the like) may be provided on the
bottom of the merchandising system (including dividers and
connectors).
[0133] According to the exemplary embodiment, the connector may
also be constructed by co-extruding a material of a first rigidity
(or flexibility) with a material of a second rigidity (or
flexibility). According to an exemplary embodiment, the connector
is a dual durometer extrusion having a portion (i.e., an upper
portion) constructed from a rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and
another portion (i.e., a lower portion) constructed from a
flexible, low tack, or "gummy" PVC. The portion constructed from a
"gummy" material assists the merchandising system to stay in place
during use by slightly adhering to a support surface such as a
shelf. Similar extrusion processes may be used in the construction
and assembly of other types of connectors.
[0134] As shown in the FIGS., the merchandising system is intended
to provide dividers that may be selectively adjusted. Products or
merchandise may be placed between adjacent dividers. The
merchandising system may allow the dividers to be reconfigured and
resized for different sized divisions without the need to
reconfigure or resize adjacent dividers. A "facing" or cell may be
resized or have its width changed without needing to resize
adjacent areas (e.g., where one facing or cell is resized for a
different product size, but adjacent facings do not need to be
resized).
[0135] The merchandising system may be placed on top of shelves or
shelving units. The merchandising system may simply rest on the top
of a surface, or may be supported by feet on a shelf. According to
exemplary embodiments, low-bond adhesives, soft-tack adhesives,
plastics, polymers, elastomers, rubber (including craton rubber),
other friction enhancing materials, etc. may be applied to restrict
the motion of the merchandising system.
[0136] The various configurations of dividers and connectors shown
in the FIGS. allow a user to pick and choose dividers for use in
constructing merchandising systems. The different configurations
allow for the same basic elements to be used in constructing a wide
variety and sizes of merchandising system configurations. For
example, one merchandising system configuration may require two end
dividers, and three center dividers. Another merchandising system
configuration may require two end dividers, five center dividers,
etc. Any wide variety and configurations of dividers may be used to
construct a merchandising system to meet various requirements such
as space constraints, product sizes, etc.
[0137] The merchandising system may be constructed or assembled by
pressing, snapping, engaging, placing, etc. the engaging portions
of the dividers onto or with connectors. The connectors provide for
a relatively simple connection between two divider panels. The
dividers shown in the FIGS. may be readily adjusted. The dividers
include legs (which may be interfaces, projections, extensions,
etc.) that attach or couple to interfaces (such as notches, teeth,
etc. on the connector). The dividers may be disconnected from an
existing interface on the connector, and then attached or coupled
with another interface at a different spacing. The merchandising
system advantageously allows for selected dividers to be adjusted,
resized, refaced and/or reconfigured without requiring the
adjustment of adjacent dividers or divider sets.
[0138] In order for the merchandising system to be configured to
display or fit specific products, manufacturers, set of products,
etc., the merchandising system may be reconfigured to allow sizing
for variously sized products, etc. As shown in FIG. 11, a first
sizing or spacing (e.g., width) of dividers (indicated by "W-1")
may be used for a first product, while a second sizing or spacing
(e.g., width) of dividers (indicated by "W-2") may be used for a
second product. According to one exemplary embodiment, connectors
may be provided with a continuous, even distribution of interfaces
(which may be notches, teeth, etc.). The merchandising system is
configured to accommodate a wide variety of product sizes.
According to one alternative embodiment, a connector may be
provided with a limited number of interfaces set apart at
predefined distances. For example, a connector (not shown) may be
provided with three interfaces providing for three adjustment
positions (e.g., for brand specific merchandising systems having a
predefined number of adjustment positions intended to correlate to
a predefined number of products or product sets). According to
alternative embodiments, any configuration, arrangement, sizing or
distribution of interfaces may be provided.
[0139] Referring now to FIG. 37, an alternative embodiment of a
merchandising system 200 according to the present disclosure
includes many of the same elements described with regard to
merchandising system 10, described above. An alternative embodiment
product shelf 254 is included for the storage and display of
product. FIG. 38 illustrates a portion of a product shelf 254.
Positioned on a shelf support 253, a plurality of dividers 220 and
320 cooperate with floors 240 to define a plurality product storage
and display spaces 222. Floors 240 may also serve as connectors
extending between adjacent dividers 220 and 320. As noted above,
floor 240 is sloped downward from adjacent a rear shelf structure
252 toward a forward lip 248 of shelf support 253 to urge product
containers 290 within the spaces 222 to slide forward as the
forwardmost product containers are removed.
[0140] At a front end 296 of each divider 220 and 320, a pair of
product retaining members are mounted. For dividers which define an
outer wall without an adjacent space 222, single sided product
retaining members 380 may be mounted and for the interior dividers,
double sided product retaining members 280 may be mounted. These
product retaining members may cooperate with product stop 86 of a
display portion 70 adjacent lip 248 to prevent product containers
290 from sliding out of spaces 22 and presenting the forwardmost
containers to customers. This arrangement can also be seen in FIG.
39.
[0141] FIGS. 40 and 41 show the arrangement of dividers 220 and 320
with respect to retaining members 280 and 380. As will be described
more fully below, each product retaining member 280 and 380
includes arms extending at least partially across the width of one
of the spaces 222. These arms are resilient and deformable so that
when a container 290 is pulled forward from a space 222, the arms
deflect outward, permitting the container to be removed. Once the
container has passed through the arms, the arms spring back to
block the next container 290 in line within space 22 as it slides
forward. This product removal and retention operation has been
described previously with regard to the tabs 80 and 180 and is
generally the same with difference that will be discussed
below.
[0142] Referring now to FIGS. 42 and 43, and also as described
above, each product retaining member 280 and 380 mounts to front
end 296 of dividers 220 and 320 by engaging a channel 294. A rear
portion 302 of each product retaining member defines a slot for
engaging the channels 294 and securing the members to the front of
each space 222. A pair of channels 294 are defined opposite one
another on front end 296 and each channel 294 may include a groove
292 to engage a catch or other retaining feature of rear portions
302.
[0143] Referring now to FIGS. 44 to 47, product retaining member
280 includes a pair of arms 304 which curve away from one another.
Each arm has an inner surface define a product engaging portion 306
and include a reversed curve portion 308 at an end opposite rear
portion 302. Along product engaging portion 306, product retaining
member 280 may include gripped surfaces such as surface 98, shown
above in FIG. 7A, or some other friction enhancing surface that
will aid the retention of product within space 222 until removal is
desired. Reversed curve portion 308 is provided to aid in the
replenishment or restocking of product into spaces 222. Having
curved surface 308 at a forward end arms 304 permits a restocker to
merely push the product into space 222 without having to separately
displace the arms. Because of the intended purpose of reverse curve
portion 308, it is desirable that the gripped surface or surface
treatment, if any, not be extended from product engaging portion
306 to portion 308.
[0144] On an opposite or outer surface 310 of arm 304 of product
retaining member 280 may be a plurality of reinforcing shapes or
ridges 312. Extending between the side 310 and adjacent rear
portion 302 may be a reinforcing gusset 314. Ridges 312 and gusset
314 cooperate to provide a desired level of stiffness and
structural integrity to ensure that product held within spaces 222
is not accidentally released. Since the shelf assembly is tilted
forward, the product within space 22 may be exerting force on arms
304. At the same time, it is desirable to not require excessive
force to remove product from space 222 when a customer wants to
access or purchase the product. It is also desirable to not require
a large insertion force during restocking.
[0145] Different shapes of product may exert eccentric forces on
the arms and tend to twist them from the generally vertical
orientation shown herein. Gusset 314 may be sized and configured to
provide the desired resistance to movement into and out of space
222. The further along side 310 that gusset 314 extends, the
greater support is provided to resist eccentric forces. The
thickness of gusset 314 may also be tailored to provide a desired
level of eccentric force resistance. Ridges 312 also provide
resistance against deflection during removal and insertion of
product from space 222. Selection of the number of ridges 312
included along side 310 and the size of these ridges, as well as
the length and thickness of gusset 314, allows the degree of
resistance to deflection or twisting of product retaining member
280 to be adapted to the desired installation requirements.
[0146] Rear portion 302 includes a pair of opposing members 316
defining a slot 318 which is sized to receive and engage channel
294 of front end 296 of dividers 220 and 320. At an outer end of
each member 316 is a snap portion or catch 320. Catch 320 is sized
and positioned to engage groove 292 within channel 294. Engagement
of catches 320 and grooves 292 removably secures product retaining
member 280 to divider 220 or 320. Product retaining member 280 may
be changed to a differently configured retaining member as the
nature, size and weight of the product to be stored and displayed
within space 222 is changed.
[0147] Referring now to FIGS. 48 and 49, single sided product
retaining member 380 includes many of the same elements as
retaining member 280, above. A gusset 322 is provided to provide
support to the single arm 304. The opposing members 316 defining
slot 318 are configured with one member longer than the other, so
that the catches are offset from each other. For single sided
member 380, it may be desirable to have the longer of the two
members 316 extend on the side opposite from arm 304. Placing the
longer member 316 opposite arm 304 may provide better resistance to
movement or deformation of product retaining member 380.
[0148] Referring now to FIGS. 50 to 53, an alternative embodiment
of a double armed product retaining member 330 includes a rear
portion 302 configured generally the same as the rear portion of
product retaining members 280 and 380, described above. Product
retaining member 330 includes a pair of resilient deformable or
deflectable arms 334, each including a product engaging portion 336
and include a reversed curve portion 338. These retaining and
reversed curved portions may be configured similarly to the
corresponding portions of members 280 and 380 and serve the same
general function as those portions. Arms 334 may also include one
or a plurality of ridges 312 for support at different locations
along an inner surface 340. A nominal gusset 344 may also be
included between arms 334 and rear portion 302, or alternatively,
no gusset may be included except as needed or desired for molding
or production efficiencies. Arms 334 may include an added thickness
332 along inner surface 340 to provide the resistance to deflection
and/or twisting that might otherwise be provided by a larger
gusset.
[0149] FIGS. 54 and 55 illustrate a single armed embodiment 350 of
a product retaining member, with a single arm 334 with added
thickness 332 along an inner surface 340. As with the double armed
product retaining member 330, the added thickness along the inner
wall provides a bean or girder-like effect that may aid in the
ability of the arm to resist both deflection and twisting caused by
product within space 222 exerting force of the members. As with
single armed retaining member 380, one of the members 316 extends
beyond the other member 316 of rear portion 302. This longer member
316 is preferably positioned opposite arm 334.
[0150] The thickness of arms 334 and the size of gussets 314 and
322, as well as the number of ridges 312 may be varied to ensure
that the deflection characteristics of arms 304 and 334 are
appropriate for the products to be held in spaces 222. The material
qualities or characteristics of the materials chosen for the
product retaining members, as well as the physical dimensions of
the members may also impact the number of ridges, the size of
gussets and the thickness of arms that will be required to achieve
the deflection characteristics desired of the product retaining
members. The number of ridges, the size of the gussets, and the
thickness of arms shown in the FIGS. is intended to be illustrative
only and is not intended to indicate preferred dimensions.
[0151] It is also important to note that the construction and
arrangement of the elements of the merchandising system as shown in
the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few
embodiments of the present inventions have been described in
detail, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many
modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions,
structures, shapes, tolerances, and proportions of the various
elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of
materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing
from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter of
the present inventions. For example, elements shown as integrally
formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements show as
multiple parts may be integrally formed. For example, a connector
or connector portion of any of the exemplary or alternative
embodiments could be made as an integral piece with a divider. The
operation of the connection between the divider and connector may
be reversed or otherwise varied, the shape or size (e.g., length or
width) of the dividers or other elements of the system (e.g., shelf
divider or interface of the divider members) may be varied, the
nature or number of discrete adjustment positions provided on the
connectors may be varied (e.g., by variations in the number of
engagement points or size of the engagement points or type of
engagement).
[0152] It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of
the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of
materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, including
any of a wide variety of moldable or extrudable plastic materials
(such as high-impact plastic) in any of a wide variety of colors,
textures and combinations. It should also be noted that the
merchandising system may be used in association with a shelf (e.g.,
of a shelving unit or the like) or any of a wide variety of other
surfaces in any of a wide variety of other applications.
Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included
within the scope of the present inventions.
[0153] The merchandising system may be to display and merchandise a
variety of products, including containers, packages, bags, boxes,
tubes, etc. The products may be food products, foodstuffs, snacks,
prepared food packages, etc. Alternatively, other products of a
variety of sizes and weights may be displayed and merchandised,
such as consumer products, parts, batteries, automotive batteries,
tissue boxes, etc.
[0154] While the invention has been described with reference to
preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is
not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments set forth
above. Thus, it is recognized that those skilled in the art will
appreciate that certain substitutions, alterations, modifications,
and omissions may be made without departing from the spirit or
intent of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description is
meant to be exemplary only, the invention is to be taken as
including all reasonable equivalents to the subject matter of the
invention, and should not limit the scope of the invention set
forth in the following claims.
* * * * *